Beaches & Islands
Juan Dolio Beach
Juan Dolio Beach, Dominican Republic
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Kick back on white sand under a bright sun with a refreshing coconut water in hand at Juan Dolio beach. Lined with palm trees and exclusive accommodation, Juan Dolio is one of the best beaches near Santo Domingo and also a favorite weekend and holiday retreat for Dominicans living in the eastern part of the country.
Developed to showcase the best of the Dominican Republic for travelers on short breaks, Juan Dolio is a compact destination with lots on offer in easy walking and driving distance. If you’re visiting the island for just a few days, a stay at Juan Dolio gives you the chance to relax, swim, dive and explore a feast of food and drink all within a stone’s throw.
During the 80s, Juan Dolio beach was the focal point of the DR’s booming tourist trade and one of the biggest drawcards for international visitors. Nowadays, the area is enjoying a quieter phase and the luxury apartments offer excellent value for visitors looking for a peaceful, comfortable Caribbean getaway with all the mod cons.
As the old adage says: "Man will live not only from the sea, but from all the beautiful things that surround him," and Juan Dolio beach is surrounded by a ripple of hotels, bars and restaurants, offering a great diversity of options for visitors to choose from.
Where to stay
Just a three minute drive east of Juan Dolio beach, Emotions by Hodelpa is an all-inclusive resort offering unbeatable access to golf, multiple beaches and several excellent diving destinations including Boca Chica. Another mile east, Costa del Sol offers oceanfront condos, private pools right on the beach and an indoor gaming arcade. Looking to rent a whole villa to yourself? Metro Country Club offers well-serviced private villas great for group getaways.
Where to eat, drink and dance
Our top recommendations for visitors to Juan Dolio are Café Bistro, Nico's Beach, Hosteria 1 and Sal Marina. Each of these showcase the summery essence of the Caribbean with freshly-squeezed juices, great mojitos and locally-sourced seafood (look for Chillo and Dorado on the menu).
Local street food vendors can be found walking all over the Juan Dolio area, selling delicious local delicacies like shrimp, octopus, clams, lambi and coconuts.
When to visit
Weekends and holidays are the busiest days, and a great time to visit if you want to socialise with Dominicans (Dominicans love visitors and meeting new people!) For those who prefer to unwind in a quieter environment, weekday stays offer the chance to feel like you own the whole place!
Getting there
Located in the southeast, Juan Dolio is 57 kilometers from the capital Santo Domingo and just 13 kilometers from the city of San Pedro de Macorís.
Written by Aura de los Santos.
Published July 2020.
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